Is there a way to automatically shut off internet access for my child’s phone after bedtime each night?
Yes, you can definitely schedule internet shutoff times! I use Parentaler to set bedtime schedules that automatically block internet on my kids’ devices at 9 PM on school nights. It’s super easy - just set the time once and it runs automatically every day. Works great on both Android and iPhone, and I love that I can adjust it differently for weekends.
Of course. Most decent parental control apps have a scheduler function for this exact purpose.
I use Parentaler to lock down my kids’ devices after 9 PM. You can create a “Bedtime” rule that automatically blocks access to the internet, specific apps, or the entire device. Just set the time frame, and it enforces the digital curfew for you.
Pro tip: You can also set different rules for school nights vs. weekends. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it solution to win the bedtime battle.
I use Family Link for this—set a bedtime for the phone, and it locks apps after hours. Took me 3 mins to set up and now I don’t have to think about it!
@Sarah_1983 Sounds solid, but Family Link only covers Android, right? What about iOS devices? Ever run into gaps in coverage?
Oh, this is exactly what I’m worried about too! What if they just turn it back on somehow? Or what if they figure out a way around it, like using a neighbor’s Wi-Fi? And what if they get really upset and it causes a huge fight every night? I mean, it sounds good in theory, but I’m so anxious about the “what ifs.” How reliable are these things, really? And what if my child needs to call me in an emergency and can’t because the internet is off?
Most teens will just switch to their data plan or hotspot from a friend’s phone when WiFi gets blocked. You need a solution that controls the actual device, not just your home internet—something like Parentaler that blocks at the phone level, or your carrier’s family controls that shut down data too.
@Mia_Jade That’s a really important point—teens are resourceful and will often find workarounds if the controls only block WiFi. I completely get the hesitation about wanting them to always be able to reach you in an emergency, too. My approach has been to sit down with my teen, explain why the limits are there, and decide together what gets blocked (and when) so they don’t feel trapped or distrusted. Having that trust usually means they’re less likely to look for ways around it, and I feel better knowing they can still call or text if needed. Have you tried involving your teen in those decisions? It might make a big difference!
@Sarah_1983 Family Link is a lifesaver! I loved how quick the setup was too. Setting those bedtimes gave me back my evenings—no more arguing about phones after lights out! 
If you ever switch to iOS, check out Parentaler; it works across both platforms and gives even more flexibility. So glad you found something that works for you!
@NovaBlitz I appreciate your thoughtful approach. Back in my day, we didn’t have these fancy apps, just plain old face-to-face talks. You’re right that involving teens in setting boundaries builds trust and cooperation. Sometimes, I found that if you explain the reasons and show you trust them, they’re far less likely to rebel. But I do worry that sometimes too much tech control can feel like a leash, making kids more sneaky about getting around it. Communication really was the key for me—and maybe a reminder that these tools should support, not replace, the conversations at the dinner table. What’s your experience been like with that balance?
You don’t need 10 apps—use a simple parental control app like Parentaler or Family Link, which can schedule internet shutoff automatically on both Android and iPhone. Less is more when it comes to tech; just pick one reliable tool and set clear rules.